The annual Graduate Interdisciplinary Forum has facilitated a campus-wide and community discussion of the scholarly works of graduate students from Missouri State University since 1994.  Although the format, location, and award types have changed over time, the purpose of the Forum has always been to promote an eclectic understanding of the research and creative work of graduate students across disciplines.  The Forum also serves to increase public awareness of scholarship activities on the Missouri State University campus.  The scale of the Forum has grown over the years from 7 participants in 1994 to a high of 160 participants in 2005.  In the early years of the Forum, participation by academic colleges was limited in scope.  Currently, however, all of the colleges on campus are represented at the Forum.

History of IDF

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Format

•   The first Forum in 1994 was an evening event with 7 oral presentations.

•   In 1996, poster presentations were introduced along with oral presentations.

•   In 2008, a second round of competition for finalists was held in the afternoon.

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Keynote Speakers

•    President Keiser addressed attendees in 1996 and 1997.

•    Faculty speakers from various departments were utilized in 1998, 1999, and 2001.

•    Dean of the Graduate College, Frank Einhellig, was the speaker in 1994, 1995, 2000, and 2002.

•    Provost McCarthy was the speaker in 2008.

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Awards

•    A culminating banquet and awards ceremony were a part of the program in the years 1999 to 2002.

•    A formal awards ceremony in the theater was held in 2003 - present.

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Abstract Submission

•    Prior to 2003, paper copies and/or disks were submitted to the Graduate College.

•    Electronic submission of abstracts was initiated in 2003.

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Benefits of IDF

•    Provides an inviting public forum which reaches out to the community.

•    Promotes opportunities to showcase research findings.

•    Prepares students for future professional presentations.

•    Encourages sharing of valuable perspectives across disciplines.

•    Offers networking opportunities for students, faculty, and the community.

•    Affords recognition of outstanding research, students, and faculty.

•    Builds unity in the Missouri State University graduate community.